In a recent disclosure on January 9, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., Mr. Ahmad Madadam, the Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand Krabi Provincial Office, shed light on the tourism landscape during the New Year Festival, spanning from December 29, 2023, to January 4, 2024. The data collected indicated a noteworthy influx of over 69,000 tourists to Krabi Province, translating into an impressive income of approximately 1,064 million baht.
Analyzing the statistics, it was revealed that the tourist demographic comprised 30 percent Thai nationals and 70 percent foreigners. A comparative analysis with the previous year showcased a 3 percent increase in the number of tourists and a commendable 10 percent surge in income. Notably, the primary contributors to this surge were tourists hailing from Malaysia, Singapore, Sweden, India, and England. Additionally, there was a notable presence of tourists from emerging markets such as Vietnam, Korea, Spain, and Kazakhstan.
During this period, popular tourist destinations like Koh Lanta witnessed a diverse visitor profile, with Swedes, Russians, and Americans dominating the scene. Meanwhile, Phi Phi Island welcomed a cosmopolitan mix of tourists from various countries.
Mr. Ahmad emphasized that the top-ranking tourist attractions during the New Year’s festival included Phi Phi Island, Lanta Island, Ao Nang, and Railay, experiencing a higher concentration of foreign visitors compared to the previous year. Despite the ongoing new season, various tourist spots in Krabi province anticipate a sustained influx, minimizing the impact of a traditionally slow low-season.
The Mueang Krabi District stands out as an exception, with fewer tourists anticipated. Conversely, areas outside the district are expected to attract a significant number of visitors. Notably, from January to November 2023, Krabi Province witnessed an impressive 3.4 million visitors, generating an income of 26 billion baht – a remarkable increase of over 100 percent compared to the previous year.
Highlighting the pattern of Thai tourists during the New Year festival, Mr. Ahmad noted that around 30 percent of them chose Krabi as their destination. However, this figure was considered moderate, as many Thai nationals typically gravitate towards the northern region, seeking colder climates during this period. The Director anticipates a gradual increase in Thai tourists during the upcoming summer months as the holidaymakers return to the country.
Looking ahead to the Songkran festival, the government, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Ao Nang Subdistrict Administrative Organization, is gearing up for a vibrant celebration at Phi Phi Island. This strategic initiative aims to draw more tourists to engage in festivities, not only at Phi Phi Island but also in key areas of Ao Nang and Railay. The anticipation is that these events will contribute to further bolstering tourist numbers in the region.
